Jerry Scheibmeir, 59, Humboldt, was in critical condition at the University of Kansas Medical Center Tuesday afternoon following surgery to remove a four-inch-diameter limb from his midsection.
Sheriff Bryan Murphy said Scheibmeir and three friends were fishing in the Neosho River when their boat ran afoul of brush and a protruding limb struck and penetrated Scheibmeir’s body.
A number of emergency responders converged on the scene, about five miles southwest of Iola, and moved Scheibmeir up the bank to an Eagle Med helicopter. He was flown directly to KU Med, where surgery was performed Monday evening.
Family friends told the Register infection was a concern as Scheibmeir recovers.
Murphy said many responders had a role in getting Scheibmeir on his way to the medical center.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is investigating the accident.
